Step 1 In a saute pan, cook the garlic in the olive oil for a moment over medium-high heat. Add the conserva, pepper, tomatoes and salt, and bring to a simmer. Lower the heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomato pieces relax into a smooth sauce, about 20 minutes. Makes 1 1/2 cups. Serve tossed with pasta such as rigatoni (1 1/2 cups sauce for 1 pound of pasta).